Originally posted 12/8/20 - Updated 12/9/22
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville were sleeping peacefully in bed. That was until Cindy Lou Who woke up only to find the Grinch picking up her presents to steal...
Today, modern-day “grinches” have more to worry about with security systems in homes. However, that doesn’t always give you foolproof protection if you’re away for the holiday.
You still need a plan in place to protect your presents! Because unfortunately, the “grinches” hearts today won’t grow three times in size.
Keep them from stealing Christmas by following these safety tips!
Avoid Posting About Christmas Vacations on Social Media
We get that updating your followers on what’s going on can be really fun, however, it can be very dangerous. Posting that you’re away or on vacation can make your home a vulnerable target for burglaries. A survey from the UK shows that 80 percent of burglars are using social media to find their targets. Be safe and post your pictures and updates after you get home!
Cut Up Boxes or Packages of Expensive Gifts
Don’t take your 70-inch TV box to the curb for the garbage man. This just is a showcase of what’s waiting inside for potential burglars! Instead, cut up the boxes/packages of the gifts and put them in a trash bag.
Lock All Doors and Windows
This may seem simple, but so many leave doors and windows open when not home. Doing so only extends a full invitation for a burglar to come in and make themselves at home. Even if you have a security system, always make sure to lock up before leaving. 
Leave a Light On
If you know you’re going to be away for an extended period of time, leave a light or TV on. This gives the appearance that someone is home. You can even invest in lights that can be scheduled to turn off and on right from your phone whenever you’d like. This way, you can rest a little more easily when leaving your home for longer periods of time.
Ask a Friend or Trusted Neighbor to Check In
If you’re planning on being away for some time, it might be a good idea to ask a friend or neighbor you trust to check in on your home. They can get your mail and packages to make it seem like you’re home. Additionally, asking someone you trust to house-sit is another great idea to avoid any break-ins.
Leave a Car in the Driveway
This is just another great way to give an impression of someone that is home. Statistics show that burglars are more likely to think twice about breaking into a home if a car is parked in the driveway outside. It’s a simple tip to feel more secure!
Final Thoughts
Implementing some of these safety tips may help keep the “grinch” from stealing your Christmas. If you’re curious about your home’s coverage, feel free to reach out to your Arnold Insurance Executive and we’ll be happy to answer all of your questions!
